'HK should align with nation's space economy goals'

New People's Party chairwoman Regina Ip on Friday urged the government to take steps to align with the nation's goals for aerospace industry development as outlined in the 15th Five-Year Plan.

This is among the 29 suggestions proposed to the government by the party for two upcoming policy blueprints – the SAR's first five-year plan and the Chief Executive's Policy Address.

Speaking to reporters, Ip said the administration should set up an office dedicated to the aerospace economy and commence open recruitment procedures for an office head within six months of establishment.

"Apart from that, the government should also put together a coordination or development committee for the space economy to provide advice and coordinate various relevant aspects, such as technology, scientific research, law, finance, regional cooperation, as well as collaboration with the mainland and overseas," Ip said.

"This would enable a development roadmap to be drawn up within one year, which would outline what actions should be taken over the next five years," she added.

New People's Party lawmaker Adrian Ho said authorities should consider building a fourth cross-harbour tunnel which connects Tseung Kwan O to Hong Kong Island.

He said such a move could help further relieve heavy traffic in the city, as the three cross-harbour tunnels are operating at near-capacity even with traffic rationalisation measures in place.

His colleague, Dominic Lee, said the government should seek to collaborate more with airports in the Greater Bay Area as a way to strengthen Hong Kong's position as an international aviation hub.

Other ideas include speeding up the establishment of an artificial intelligence governance framework, providing more childbirth incentives, and converting long-vacant wet markets for public use.

Edited by Aaron Tam ...